Are You Living With Imposter Syndrome?
By: Thomas Cheeseman
I’m living with imposter syndrome / I’m just a colossal freak show / Lucky you see me through frosted windows / A layer of makeup that I just can’t take off.
Following a night out at Lime Cordiale’s concert in Sydney a few weeks ago, I found myself with this earworm “Imposter Syndrome” stuck in my head. It was the above lyrics that stuck. Many of us grapple with feelings of self-doubt from time to time, so what exactly is imposter syndrome, and why does it strike such a chord with so many of us?
What is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter syndrome can be characterized by a range of thoughts and feelings, including:
Self-Doubt: Even high-achieving individuals may question their abilities and contributions, feeling that they are not as competent as others perceive them to be.
Attribution of Success to External Factors: Those with imposter syndrome often credit their achievements to luck, timing, or the help of others rather than their own skills and hard work.
Fear of Exposure: There’s an overwhelming fear of being “found out,” leading to anxiety about performance and the potential consequences of perceived inadequacy.
This mindset can be particularly prevalent in competitive or people-based work environments, where high expectations and comparisons to peers can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy.
The Impact of Imposter Syndrome
People struggling with imposter syndrome can find themselves experiencing some of the following.
- Reduced Job Satisfaction: Employees with imposter syndrome may struggle to feel fulfilled in their roles, often believing they do not deserve their position. This can lead to decreased job satisfaction and motivation, affecting overall performance.
– - Increased Anxiety and Stress: The constant fear of being exposed can result in heightened anxiety and stress levels. This not only impacts mental health but can also lead to physical health issues, such as headaches, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.
– - Avoidance of Challenges: Individuals experiencing imposter syndrome may shy away from taking on new projects or challenges, fearing they will fail. This avoidance can hinder personal and professional growth, limiting opportunities for advancement.
– - Difficulty Accepting Praise: Many people with imposter syndrome find it hard to accept compliments or recognition, dismissing positive feedback as unwarranted. This reluctance can prevent them from fully embracing their successes and may affect
What Can we Do to Reduce Imposter Syndrome?
Here are some general strategies to help you navigate and reduce imposter syndrome:
- Acknowledge Your Feelings: The first step in overcoming imposter syndrome is recognizing and accepting that you are experiencing these feelings. Understand that self-doubt is common, especially among high achievers.
– - Challenge Negative Self-Talk: Pay attention to the internal dialogue that fuels your self-doubt. When you catch yourself thinking negative thoughts, challenge them. Ask yourself: “Is this thought based on facts?” or “What evidence do I have to support or contradict this belief?”
– - Seek Support: Talk to trusted friends, family members, or colleagues about your feelings. Sharing your experiences can help normalize them and provide reassurance. Often, others may have similar struggles, and discussing these feelings can foster a sense of connection and understanding.
– - Reflect on Your Achievements: Regularly take time to reflect on your accomplishments, no matter how small. Creating a journal where you document positive feedback, completed work, or skills developed can serve as a reminder of your capabilities and reinforce your self-worth.
– - Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend facing similar feelings. Practicing self-forgiveness and understanding can help you navigate feelings of inadequacy with reduced judgment, fostering a healthier relationship with yourself.
Imposter syndrome is a prevalent issue that can impact your mental health and professional growth. But based on its appearance in pop culture, it’s evident you are not alone when you feel this struggle, and rather than a “colossal freak show” you are experiencing something others feel so much that they sing about it.
If you need support, why not consider reaching out to a mental health practitioner. They are trained to help you identify unhelpful thought patterns and engage in positive practices that foster your growth.
Article supplied with thanks to The Centre for Effective Living.
Feature image: Photo by ochimax studio on Unsplash
